1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Cherokee would be higher. At 2,464 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Jeep Cherokee (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Cherokee should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 1997 Jeep Cherokee is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Cherokee will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mazda 3 (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (195 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. 1997 Jeep Cherokee has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Jeep Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Cherokee | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | Cherokee | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2464 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2639 mm |
